Sengol : Its Significance And Controversy Surrounding It

The Sengol represents authority and power in ancient times. Although the exact era of its origin or initial usage is unreliable, various sources show that it has been a part of Tamil culture for over 3000 years. It was customary to offer the sceptre to the new ruler upon his accession to power.

According to experts, the sceptre is a symbolic depiction that reminds those in the authority of their position or duty to the public to guarantee good governance and justice. In addition, it serves as a continual reminder that the Sengol does not bend in its pursuit of justice.

Sengol was presented as a noble gift in ancient times, but many of us were unaware of its rich history and current conflict. Let me explain how and why Sengol grabbed the limelight and why there was controversy, so read on.

Installation of Sengol in the Indian Parliament

May 28 2023, marked a historic day for the country when it was handed over its new parliament building. Sengol, a cultural mark commemorating power transfer, was installed near the speaker's chair in the new structure.

The most exciting part of the ceremony was that the Government installed the same sceptre that the Britishers presented on August 14, 1947, to India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. It represented the transition of authority from the British and was kept at an Allahabad museum.

Sadly, the sceptre was confined to a museum corner as a "walking stick" of Nehru. Many people questioned Nehru's attitude and intent as a result of this. According to some, Nehru sought to protect his secular image and avoided using the Sengol because of its history in Hindu ceremonies. Many believe the evidence was intentionally destroyed to remove the momentous event from national memory.

Upon learning about its significance, the incumbent Government decided to install the "Dharmic Stick" in its rightful place. It is also an attempt to restore this antiquated custom and honour India's freedom.

Why The Controversy?

Everything appeared to be going smoothly until the politicians entered the fray with their loud tongues and evil intentions. Some opposition parties rejected the Sengol as entirely fictitious, while others denied the concept of justice. Others referred to the transfer of Sengol to Nehru as misrepresentation and demanded photographs from the day to back it up—some web portals with a dubious reputation and backing also back up such bogus accusations.

While corrupt politics has long harmed our nation's interests, politicians haven't given up.

Government’s Efforts to Remove Cloud of Doubt

To refute the opposition's charges and set the record straight, the Central Government has issued a 30-page docket.

The material supplied proves beyond question that the vesting of the Sengol, a significant cultural signal of power transfer during the Chola period, was used to signify the transfer of sovereignty from Colonial rule to India.

The evidence supplied includes media accounts such as Time Magazine, novels such as D F Karaka's Betrayal of India and Freedom at Midnight by Larry Collins and Dominique Lapierre, and hundreds of additional books and documents from the period in question.

The historical facts claim that during the ceremony, the priests recited 11 verses of the Tamil sacred script, "Kolaru Pathikam," concluding with a prayer to Lord Shiva that the new authority would rule eternally.

Such factual details were tabled before the people with unimpeachable evidence by the Government.

Here is a short film sourced from Google that will help you better understand the chain of events that occurred during the presentation of the sceptre to Nehru.

Conclusion

To summarize the events, I believe, Sengol is a symbol of India's rich cultural heritage. It is a reminder of the country's diversity and the importance of respecting each other's differences. Sceptre is an important symbol for the people of India, reminding them of their history and the power of their collective voice. It also reminds us that the Indian people have the ability to bring about change and fight for justice.

Image and Video Courtesy: Google